capital-region · Iceland
The Shore Piece
About The Shore Piece
The Shore Piece is a public artwork in Capital Region, Iceland, contributing to the country's rich tradition of public art and creative expression.
History & Background
The Shore Piece was created by internationally renowned sculptor Richard Serra and installed on Viðey as part of Reykjavík’s effort to bring major contemporary artworks into the natural landscape around the capital. The sculpture reflects Serra’s long-standing interest in how large-scale steel forms interact with terrain, movement, and perception. Today, the work forms part of Viðey’s outdoor cultural landscape alongside walking paths, historical sites, and nearby artworks such as Imagine Peace Tower, making the island one of the most distinctive open-air art destinations near Reykjavík.
Tours Near The Shore Piece
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Book NowHistory & Background
The Shore Piece was created by internationally renowned sculptor Richard Serra and installed on Viðey as part of Reykjavík’s effort to bring major contemporary artworks into the natural landscape around the capital. The sculpture reflects Serra’s long-standing interest in how large-scale steel forms interact with terrain, movement, and perception. Today, the work forms part of Viðey’s outdoor cultural landscape alongside walking paths, historical sites, and nearby artworks such as Imagine Peace Tower, making the island one of the most distinctive open-air art destinations near Reykjavík.
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Book NowStory & Folklore
The Shore Piece is a remarkable feature of Capital Region, Iceland — a place where ancient geology, Norse heritage and dramatic natural forces meet. Iceland is one of the world's youngest countries geologically, yet one of the oldest in terms of human storytelling. Every location here has a story worth knowing.
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Book NowVisitor Information
Best Time
May–September (best ferry frequency and walking conditions on Viðey) Accessible year-round depending on ferry schedule.
Why Visit
The Shore Piece is a public artwork in Capital Region, Iceland, contributing to the country's rich tradition of public art and creative expression.
Did You Know?
The Shore Piece is a public artwork in Capital Region, Iceland, contributing to the country's rich tradition of public art and creative expression.
Framing the Horizon
Visitors walking along the shoreline of Viðey often encounter The Shore Piece unexpectedly — two monumental steel forms standing quietly against the open horizon. Rather than telling a traditional story, the sculpture invites people to create their own experience of space, distance, and landscape. As you move around the artwork, the shapes shift visually against Faxaflói bay and the mountains beyond. The sea, weather, and changing light become part of the piece itself. Many visitors describe the moment as a pause in the journey across the island — a place where art and nature briefly merge into one scene.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Practical Information
Best Time
May–September (best ferry frequency and walking conditions on Viðey) Accessible year-round depending on ferry schedule.
Duration
45–90 minutes total visit (including walk from ferry pier)
Access
Reachable by ferry from Reykjavík (Skarfabakki or seasonal Old Harbour departures). From the Viðey pier, follow marked walking paths along the shoreline (~20–30 minute walk).
